1. **Talent and Depth**
– **Physical Talent**: Alabama is known for having top-tier, NFL-ready athletes across the board. DeBoer would likely be looking at the raw talent on display—players with size, speed, and strength who can match up against Washington’s high-powered offense or any other team vying for a playoff spot.
– **Depth**: Alabama’s ability to rotate players without a significant drop-off in performance is key. DeBoer would pay attention to Alabama’s depth at key positions, like quarterback, defensive line, and wide receiver, which can make or break playoff runs.
2. **Consistency and Execution**
– **Game-to-Game Consistency**: For any team aiming for the College Football Playoff, consistency is crucial. DeBoer would be watching Alabama’s ability to play at a high level week in and week out, especially against tough SEC competition.
– **Discipline**: Alabama is historically known for its ability to play clean, disciplined football. Penalties, turnovers, and special teams play could be a focal point for DeBoer, who would want to see how Alabama handles these aspects in high-stress moments.
3. **Playmaking Ability**
– **Quarterback Play**: The quarterback position is often the focal point in playoff discussions. Whether it’s Jalen Milroe or someone else, DeBoer would be paying close attention to how Alabama’s QB executes under pressure—his decision-making, accuracy, and ability to create plays with his legs or arm.
– **Playmakers on Defense**: Players like Dallas Turner, Kool-Aid McKinstry, and others would catch DeBoer’s attention. Alabama’s defense is known for generating turnovers and putting pressure on opposing QBs, so he would be monitoring the effectiveness of their defensive front and secondary.
4. **Coaching and Adaptability**
– **Nick Saban’s Strategy**: DeBoer, as a coach, would also consider how Nick Saban adapts to different opponents. Saban’s ability to make in-game adjustments, particularly in high-stakes situations, is something that sets Alabama apart. DeBoer would likely be thinking about how well Alabama adapts to changing dynamics in a playoff race.
– **Special Teams**: In playoff scenarios, even special teams play a pivotal role. DeBoer would take note of how Alabama handles punting, kicking, and return units under the pressure of big games.
5. **Momentum and Postseason Potential**
– **SEC Championship Run**: If Alabama is looking at a playoff berth, they’d likely need to win the SEC Championship. DeBoer would evaluate how Alabama performs in its big games, such as against Georgia or LSU, as these matchups will serve as key indicators of whether they have what it takes to make a serious playoff push.
– **Key Matchups and Strength of Schedule**: The strength of Alabama’s schedule in the SEC often provides a good indication of how battle-tested they are come playoff time. DeBoer would be watching to see if Alabama can overcome the tough SEC gauntlet and still enter the postseason with the right momentum.
Kalen DeBoer would be analyzing Alabama’s roster, system, and overall execution to see if they are playing at a level that can carry them into the College Football Playoff. Given Alabama’s reputation for talent, discipline, and coaching, DeBoer would likely be keeping a close eye on whether they’re truly hitting their stride for a playoff run.
